Summary
We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2009-18- 18, which applies to certain ATR--GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and ATR72 airplanes. AD 2009-18-18 requires repetitive inspections for damage and absence of repair of the cockpit forward side windows, and replacement if necessary. Since we issued that AD, we received reports of a cockpit forward right-hand side blow out during flight. This proposed AD would require repetitive detailed inspections of the cockpit forward side window for damage and discrepancies; replacement if necessary. Replacing both cockpit forward side windows with approved windows would terminate the repetitive detailed inspections. This proposed AD would also expand the applicability of AD 2009-18-18. The actions required by AD 2009-18-18 are not required by this AD. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct air/water leakage of the cockpit forward side window, which could lead to rapid cabin decompression, resulting in loss of control of the airplane.